2001 Acura RL vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 29 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 304 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2001 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Acura | Hyundai |
| Model | RL | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
